EPA Repeals Most GHG Standards for Power Plants, Cuts CCS Requirements and Opens Comment Period

The EPA finalized a rule on September 17, 2026 that repeals most greenhouse gas emission standards for fossil fuel-fired power plants. The action removes emission guidelines for existing steam generators, CCS-based standards for coal plants undergoing large modifications, and CCS requirements for new base load combustion turbines. The agency cites the Supreme Court's West Virginia v. EPA decision as the legal basis for the partial repeal. It also estimates 14 small entities will save $143 million in 2035 as a result. The EPA is simultaneously issuing a supplemental proposed rule that seeks comment on rescinding all GHG requirements for these plants, potentially by removing the endangerment finding itself. Public comments on that proposal must be submitted by November 16, 2026. This move will likely affect carbon capture project economics, coal plant retirement timelines, and the competitive position of natural gas versus renewables. Stakeholders can read both the final rule and the supplemental proposal via links in the article.